A bear walks into a bar and says, ”I’ll have a Freeride APA … and some of those peanuts.”

The bartender responds, "Why the big pause?"

There’s no need to pause on your drink order if a light, crisp ale is what you thirst for — consider the recent American Pale Ale Gold Medal winner by Alaskan Brewing Company.

Earlier this month, breweries across the globe sent more than 2,500 beers for consideration in 68 categories at the 2013 U.S. Open Beer Championship where the Freeride APA took home gold in its category.

“It’s a really big deal for us. There are a lot of APAs out there,” said Andy Kline, Alaskan Brewing communications director. “We were going up against all of these flagship beers, so yeah, we’re really excited about it.”

A blend of cascade, citra and centennial hops combined with Juneau’s glacier-fed water distinguish the latest addition to their stock.

“It’s a really hop-forward beer,” Kline said.

First brewed on Alaskan’s pilot system in 2010, Alaskan Freeride APA was totted through Alaskan’s Rough Draft series of draft experimental brews available in Alaska only.

Then its nationwide popularity inspired them to release it again in March 2013, this time as a year-round product, replacing Alaskan Pale.

This is the first award for the Freeride APA which has only been in general release for fewer than six months.

“It’s a light ale for an American Pale Ale. It’s got kind of a light, crisp finish,” said brewer Paige Terwilliger. “It’s nice to have something drinkable in a refreshing way.”